IOSH Working Safely Course: Frequently Asked Questions
The IOSH Working Safely course is one of the most widely recognised, and widely accessible, training courses that covers workplace health and safety. Workers across a wide variety of sectors can benefit from taking the course, which covers essential safety principles in order to foster a safe, secure workplace.
So, if you’re interested in health and safety training for your current role or for future roles, what do you need to know about Working Safely? In today’s blog we’ll be answering a litany of frequently asked questions regarding the course, including whether or not it’s mandatory, who it’s designed for, the topics covered by the course, and the kinds of jobs that are likely to require this qualification.
What is the IOSH Working Safely Course?
Working Safely is an accredited, entry-level health and safety training program. Developed by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the course is designed to give individuals a foundational understanding of workplace hazards, and how to prevent them. It focuses on practical, straightforward knowledge that employees can apply immediately to their current roles.
The course is suitable for just about all industries and roles, ensuring that health and safety does not remain the sole responsibility of managers or specialists, but becomes a shared commitment among all employees.
Who Should Take the IOSH Working Safely Course?
The course is suitable for employees at all levels. If you want, or need, basic health and safety knowledge for your current role, Working Safely will provide this. It can be particularly helpful for companies that are looking to ensure that their entire workforce is actively contributing to a safer work environment.
No prior knowledge or qualifications are required to take the course, so it’s suited to professionals that are new to the workforce, as well as to professionals who have years of experience and are yet to undertake this kind of health and safety training.
Is the IOSH Working Safely Course Mandatory?
While not legally mandatory, many employers highly recommend or require the IOSH certification for their staff. This is especially true in industries with higher probabilities of workplace hazards, such as construction, manufacturing, and logistics. The course offers a structured way to meet health and safety obligations, which benefits both employees and their organisations.
Having this qualification demonstrates your commitment to workplace safety, which can be especially appealing to employers seeking a proactive, and safety-conscious, team.
What Topics Are Covered in the IOSH Course?
Working Safely covers a variety of critical topics to equip participants with the knowledge they need to improve safety in their workplaces. These include:
- Defining workplace hazards and risks
- Recognising common hazards like slips, trips, and falls
- Understanding basic health and safety legislation
- Improving your workplace health and safety culture
- Introducing tools to control risks effectively
- Learning the impact of human error and unsafe practices
By the end of the course, participants should not only be able to recognise potential hazards, but also understand their role in mitigating those risks. The course is delivered in a clear, jargon-free way in order to maximise accessibility.
How Long Does the IOSH Working Safely Course Take to Complete?
The course length is manageable for both beginners and busy professionals. On average, it takes about six hours to complete. This duration allows employees to gain critical skills without significant disruption to their normal work routines.
Is Working Safely Recognised in the UK?
The IOSH course is highly recognised and respected across the UK. Employers in various industries view this certification as a clear indicator of an individual’s health and safety awareness. It’s also aligned with standard health and safety practices established by UK legislation, making it a valuable credential for employees at all levels.
Can I Take the IOSH Working Safely Course Online?
At CST Training, we offer a fully online IOSH course. That’s one of the most convenient aspects of Working Safely; it can be completed in the comfort of your own home (or office, if applicable).
What’s the Difference Between Working Safely and Managing Safely?
Working Safely is designed for employees and focuses on basic health and safety knowledge applicable to most workplaces. It’s suitable for all levels of experience, and is aimed at embedding a safety-first attitude into daily tasks.
On the other hand, the Managing Safely course is tailored for supervisors, managers, and team leaders. It focuses on higher-level responsibilities, such as managing risks, investigating workplace incidents, and ensuring teams comply with health and safety regulations. Think of Working Safely as the foundation, while Managing Safely builds on this with more advanced concepts, and strategic responsibilities.
Do You Need Previous Health and Safety Experience to Take the IOSH Working Safely Course?
No, there’s absolutely no need for previous experience in health and safety to enroll in the IOSH. The course is designed to cater to beginners, and introduces key concepts in an easy-to-understand manner. Whether you’re completely new to safety principles or just need a refresher, this course will be well worth it.
What Kind of Jobs Require the Qualification?
The Working Safely certification is an asset across a diverse range of job roles, including:
- Construction workers
- Factory and warehouse staff
- Office-based personnel
- Retail employees
- Hospitality workers
- Transport and logistics staff
Essentially, any role requiring interaction with people or machinery can benefit from the skills taught in this course.
How is the IOSH Working Safely Course Assessed?
Participants complete two assessments upon finishing the course content. The first is a multiple-choice test designed to evaluate your understanding of key concepts and principles. The second is a hazard-spotting exercise, where you’ll identify unsafe practices or environments based on given scenarios.
These assessments are straightforward, and reflect real-world applications, ensuring you’re equipped to use the knowledge effectively, immediately after completing the course.
What Happens if I Fail the Assessment?
If you don’t pass first time, IOSH allows participants to retake the assessments for free. This ensures that candidates have a fair chance at achieving their certification while avoiding the unnecessary pressure that can stem from only having one shot at an assessment.
How Much Does the IOSH Working Safely Course Cost?
At CST Training, the Working Safely costs £132 + VAT. This pricing makes it one of the most affordable ways to achieve a well-recognised qualification, especially given the course’s impact on workplace safety and employability.
Is the IOSH Certificate Valid for Life?
While the certification does not expire or have a formal renewal requirement, IOSH recommends refreshing your knowledge every three years. This ensures you stay updated on any changes to workplace safety laws, regulations, or best practices.
Will I Receive a Certificate After Completing the IOSH Working Safely Course?
Yes, successful participants will receive a highly respected IOSH certificate upon completion. This can be displayed on resumes, shared with employers, or simply kept as proof of your accomplishment.
Can You Use the IOSH Qualification as a Route to a CSCS Card?
Yes, the qualification is recognised as an alternative to the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment. This means it can be used to apply for the Green Labourer CSCS card, making it particularly valuable for those working in construction or similar fields.
How Often Should You Renew Your IOSH Working Safely Certification?
While the qualification doesn’t have an expiration date, it’s best practice to renew it every three years. This refreshes your knowledge, ensures continued compliance with updated standards, and aligns with many employers’ preferences for regularly updated safety training.
Can You Complete Working Safely While Working Full-Time?
Yes, the flexibility of the course allows full-time workers to complete it without disrupting their schedules. The online format, in particular, enables individuals to learn at their convenience, fitting sessions around their work commitments.
What Format is the IOSH Working Safely Course Delivered in?
At CST Training, the course is online, which provides a self-paced, interactive experience. The online format means you can take the course from the comfort of your own home.
Is the IOSH Suitable for Self-Employed Workers?
Absolutely. Self-employed workers often lack the formal training provided by employers, making the IOSH course an essential step toward understanding health and safety regulations. It ensures compliance with legal health and safety responsibilities, helping you avoid potential liabilities.
Does the IOSH Working Safely Course Meet Legal Health and Safety Requirements?
Yes, the course helps participants understand and comply with basic legal health and safety obligations. It doesn’t provide in-depth legal training, but it ensures you are aware of your responsibilities, and that you understand how to create a safer working environment.
How Can I Prepare for the Course?
There’s no formal preparation required for the IOSH, but reviewing workplace health and safety policies can be helpful. Having general awareness of common hazards in your industry will further enhance your understanding of the course material, and potentially take some of the pressure off your assessments.
What Are the Benefits of Taking the IOSH Working Safely Course?
The benefits of completing the course include:
- Enhanced employability through a well-recognised certification
- Reduced risk of workplace incidents by fostering safer practices
- Improved legal compliance for you and your employer
- Career development by demonstrating a proactive commitment to safety
- Step towards a CSCS card, opening up job opportunities in construction
By taking this affordable, accessible course, you invest not only in your safety, but also in your future career prospects.
Conclusion (Working Safely: Frequently Asked Questions)
The Working Safely course is a straightforward, succinct course that nonetheless fully equips candidates with all the essential safety knowledge across a variety of industries. It’s flexible, affordable, and practical, making it a particularly popular choice for both employees and employers.
If you still have any questions regarding the course, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
